About Nelson • Welcome to Nelson

Discover the creative paradise that is Nelson – an irresistible blend of lifestyle and stunning landscape at the top northwest corner of the South Island. From the northern edge of the Southern Alps across the fertile plains and out to a great sweep of beaches, our place is beautifully laid out under a generous sun that delivers New Zealand’s highest sunshine hours. Discover the diverse landscapes in each of these areas.

The Big Picture - Geography

The Nelson region covers five distinct geographic areas: Map overview

• the urban centres of Nelson & Richmond
• the highways of Mapua, Motueka, Moutere, through rolling horticultural land
• the idyllic coastline of Abel Tasman National Park
• the heart of the parks, Golden Bay between Kahurangi and Abel Tasman national parks
• the alpine lakes and rivers around St Arnaud - Nelson Lakes & Murchison including Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi national parks

People

Nelson and Richmond’s combined population of 54,500 ranks it as New Zealand’s 10th most populous city.

• Māori occupation dates back some 800 years, while European settlement occurred in 1842. Six Iwi groups claim ancestral occupation rights, or rights of conquest over areas in this region. These are Ngati Koata, Ngati Rarua, Ngati Tama, Te Atiawa, Ngati Kuia and Ngati Toa. More ...
• Today Nelson is made up of Kiwis and increasing numbers of immigrants from the UK, Germany, America and further afield.

Economy

The Nelson economy is based on the ‘big four’ industries; seafood, horticulture, tourism and forestry. Port Nelson is the biggest fishing port in Australasia. There are also a range of growth industries, including art and craft, aviation, engineering technology, and information technology.